Do you have sensitive teeth? You are not alone. Over 40 percent of people reported having tooth sensitivity in a recent U.S. survey, with millions suffering from the condition across the globe.
Sensitive teeth result from the abnormal exposure of dentin, a delicate part of the tooth containing fluid and nerve endings. Drinking hot or cold beverages, eating sweet or sour foods, or even applying a slight touch can disturb the fluid and activate the nerves to produce a sensation of pain. Receding gums, plaque build-up, gum disease and teeth grinding may contribute to inappropriate dentin exposure over time. In addition, whitening or bleaching may also induce tooth sensitivity during the treatment process.
Sensitive teeth can affect any adult, from late teens all the way through life. While not considered a dental disease, the condition can lead to significant discomfort, adding stress and aggravation along the way.
Yet, you don’t have to suffer from tooth sensitivity for years on end. While the pain can occasionally recur, re-emerging for periods of time throughout one’s life, proper dental hygiene combined with some special care can make a world of difference in providing quick and powerful relief.
Follow these five easy steps to relieve your sensitive teeth today and prevent recurrence in the future:
- Invest in a toothbrush with soft bristles. A milder touch will help to reduce pain and prevent injury while brushing, allowing you to maintain your daily dental hygiene even when the tooth sensitivity flares up. Try a toothbrush designed for kids-with the softest bristles on the market, it may be your best bet to combat the discomfort of sensitive teeth.
- Clean your teeth gently but thoroughly every day. Skimping on oral hygiene can lead to a build-up of plaque, cavities and gum disease. A mild rinse can aid your efforts, especially when earnest brushing proves a bit too much to bear. Dilute some baking soda in a glass of water for a budget-friendly and effective solution suitable for any time of day.
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth on a daily basis. Through repeated use, the desensitizing ingredient in this formulation will help to create a functional barrier, blocking tooth sensitivity and preventing it from reigniting in the future. Check your local pharmacy for available options and pick the one with maximum strength for best results.
- Don’t skip the floss, but take care during the process. Gentle up-and-down movement will help to eliminate trapped waste without aggravating the nerve endings, keeping your mouth fresh and clean for hours on end.
- Avoid foods and beverages that exacerbate tooth sensitivity. Foods with high acidic content, such fruit and carbonated beverages, can aggravate the pain. Temporary restraint will lead to faster recovery, enabling you to sigh with relief and resume your normal habits without any unnecessary delay.
Sensitive teeth don’t have to rule your life. Embrace the savvy arsenal of knowledge and tools under your sleeve and step out of tooth sensitivity despair today. With conscious, consistent and diligent care, you can prevail over the pain and enjoy a healthy, bright smile for years to come.
Sources:
American Dental Association: http://www.ada.org/3058.aspx
Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sensitive-teeth/AN02164
U.S. Survey: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-survey-finds-millions-of-americans-living-with-tooth-pain-54477042.html
